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King Charles III’s heart songs are by Jamaica’s Legends.

King Charles was delighted when invited by Apple Music to share a selection of songs he has enjoyed over the years in a special broadcast celebrating Commonwealth Day. The playlist featured music from across the Commonwealth and around the world, making it an innovative and engaging way to mark the occasion.

Music has always held deep meaning for the King, as it does for many others. It possesses a remarkable ability to evoke cherished memories, offer comfort in difficult times, and transport us to distant places. More importantly, music has the power to uplift our spirits and unite us in celebration. In that spirit, the King was eager to share a diverse selection of songs that have left an impression on him.

The show opened with the King’s Guards performing Could You Be Loved by the legendary Bob Marley. This song brought back fond memories of his visit to Jamaica in 2008 with his late wife, where Rita Marley helped organize a concert featuring some of Bob Marley’s greatest hits at the then Prime Minister’s residence—an unforgettable experience.

This year, Bob Marley would have turned 80. Reflecting on his youth, King Charles recalled meeting Marley at an event and being struck by his infectious energy, deep sincerity, and unwavering commitment to his community. He remembered Marley’s powerful words: “The people have a voice inside of them.” Through his music, Marley gave that voice to the world in a way that remains unforgettable.

The King also paid tribute to the Windrush generation, whose contributions have greatly enriched British society. Among the many extraordinary artists from that era, he highlighted Millie Small, whose hit My Boy Lollipop catapulted her to international fame over 60 years ago.

Other artists featured in the King’s selection included the iconic Grace Jones, with her mesmerizing rendition of Édith Piaf’s La Vie en Rose, as well as performances by Jools Holland and Ruby Turner, and the smooth vocals of Michael Bublé.

Through this musical journey, King Charles celebrated the rich cultural diversity of the Commonwealth and the profound impact of music in bringing people together.

https://music.apple.com/us/station/the-kings-music-room/ra.1799250540

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Beloved Reggae Legend Cocoa Tea Passes Away at 65


Colvin ‘Cocoa Tea’ Scott, a legendary figure in reggae music, has passed away at the age of 65. His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed that he died at 4:46 AM at a hospital in Broward, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, following a cardiac arrest.

Cocoa Tea had been battling lymphoma since 2019 and, in recent months, also struggled with pneumonia. Despite his illness, he remained optimistic and courageous until the end. His wife recalled his hopeful spirit, even during his final hospital stay.

Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, expressed her sorrow at his passing, describing him as one of reggae’s greatest voices. She highlighted his lasting impact on the music industry and extended condolences to his family.

Born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, on September 3, 1959, Cocoa Tea rose to prominence in the mid-1980s with hits like I Lost My Sonia and Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea. Throughout the 1990s, he gained global recognition with songs such as Israel’s King, Weh Dem A Go Do, Holy Mount Zion, and Rocking Dolly. His song Rikers Island was later adapted into a dancehall version by Nardo Ranks.

Cocoa Tea also played a significant role in reggae events, launching the annual Dancehall Jam Jam in 2003. He performed on major stages, including Buju Banton’s Long Walk to Freedom concert in 2019 and the Welcome to Jamrock Cruise, where he made his last appearance three years ago.

Beyond performing, he recorded with renowned reggae labels like VP Records and Greensleeves Records before establishing his own Roaring Lion label around 2000. In 2008, he gained attention with his song Barack Obama, released in support of the future U.S. president.

Cocoa Tea leaves behind his wife, Malvia, and eight children. His contributions to reggae will continue to inspire generations to come.


https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/entertainment/20250311/veteran-reggae-singer-cocoa-tea-has-died